Bahrain is strategic partner: Russian ambassador

Manama, June 18 (BNA): Russia's Ambassador to Bahrain Vagif Garaev has lauded the level of relations between the two countries, highlighting the convergence of views on most regional and international issues. Moscow considers Manama as a strategic partner in the Gulf region in particular and in the Middle East in general, the ambassador said at a ceremony on Russia Day, the national holiday of the Russian Federation. Ambassador Garaev said that the official visit by His Majesty King Hamad to Russia in October last year and the visit by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister in April 2014 gave a strong impetus to enhance relations between the two countries. The ambassador referred to the high-level talks held between Bahrain and Russia and to the agreements during the visits, described as successful by both countries. The Russian diplomat said he was looking forward to significant outcomes for bilateral relations from the visit by His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, to take part in the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) on June 18-20. "By the end of this year, several other agreements will be signed," the diplomat said. Ambassador Garaev said his country was pleased with the level of the political talks with Bahrain, stressing that political cooperation should invariably be based on robust foundations of economic and commercial cooperation. However, he added that he was looking forward to higher levels of trade relations, particularly that ample opportunities were available. "Russia is ready to coordinate and cooperate closely with Bahrain, mainly in the technical military field that holds a special status in our future relations," he said. Ambassador Garaev said he was grateful to HM King Hamad, HRH the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, HRH Prince Salman and to Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the minister of foreign affairs, for their keen interest since his arrival in Bahrain and presentation of his credentials as ambassador in bolstering relations in various areas.